Hutton Calls for MPS Financial Audit

MADISON — Sen. Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) issued the following statement in response to the latest systemic failure at Milwaukee Public Schools:

“The public outcry regarding the recent obvious and significant failures of the Milwaukee Public Schools is the latest example of systemic failure. A few short weeks ago, the district asked for and received hundreds of millions of dollars from Milwaukee taxpayers. It claimed those funds were essential for continued operation, yet now we learn that there is obvious and significant mismanagement in the most basic functions of the district.  

“The Board and Superintendent should be held accountable for the misuse of taxpayer funds and must be responsive to the residents who are now paying those taxes. It is time for the board to engage an outside firm with appropriate expertise to conduct an audit of the district's finances, operations, and compliance practices. Upon its completion the full audit report should be made public.  

“Tens of thousands of parents put their trust in MPS to equip their children with a great education. The failures of Milwaukee’s schools cannot continue. I call on Governor Evers to join me in demanding a full external audit of the financial and management practices at MPS. Milwaukee families deserve better.”